"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Saturday, December 2, 2023 - Day 336 - (Today’s Bible readings: Nehemiah 7:66-72; Psalm 124; Revelation 2:12-17)
PROTECT ME FROM MY ENEMIES
Deliver me from my enemies, O my God;
protect me from those who rise up against me;
deliver me from those who work evil,
and save me from bloodthirsty men.
(Psalm 59:1-2 ESV)
David’s cry for deliverance from his enemies could well be the cry of persecuted Christians around the world today. While our religious freedom is under attack in our country, it cannot be compared to what Christians in other countries face if they do not convert to Islam.
Jesus gives us these words of encouragement: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
The hymn writer followed the example of David’s prayer in this manner:
Preserve, O Lord, your Zion,
Bought dearly with your blood;
Protect what you have chosen
Against the hellish flood.
Be always our defender
When dangers gather round;
When all the earth is crumbling,
Safe may your Church be found.
(Lutheran Service Book, #658, stanza 3)
Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, thank You for being my Protector and my Deliverer from sin, death and the power of the devil. Please protect Your Church and deliver my brothers and sisters in Christ from the dangers that are gathering around them. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow morning!
Pastor David Paape
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